A day at the hockey should provide an experience to remember. While we all arrive at the arenas with the main aim of watching a match, the buildup is as much a part of the occasion as anything else. NHL franchise teams realize that their supporters want to be entertained, both on and off the ice, and they will tailor hospitality packages to accommodate. Here are some of the best experiences in the National Hockey League.
Scotiabank Arena: Toronto
Home of the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Scotiabank Arena has been providing memorable hospitality packages since it opened after reconstruction in 1999. At the heart of the venue are one of the most entertaining teams in the NHL, as the Maple Leafs look to add to their impressive haul of 13 Stanley Cups.
The Scotiabank Arena offers shopping and a theater plus great bars and restaurants. For an even better experience, it’s worth checking out a suite. The Arena offers suite rentals for all games, and these are located on different levels at the venue. If you need an excuse, they are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions.
Of course, while the whole day should offer a memorable experience, we’re primarily here for hockey. The Maple Leafs haven’t won the Stanley Cup since 1967, but they remain a competitive side that attracts interest in the NHL betting markets. At the very least, you will be entertained.
SAP Center: San Jose
The San Jose Sharks are another top team in the NHL, and they provide a hospitality package to match. The SAP Center is the venue for Sharks’ home games and it has a capacity of around 17,500.
Known as the Shark Tank, the Center includes a number of premium seating areas within that overall capacity. The penthouse terrace is a popular option with space for up to 12 people. It offers great views of the game and comes with premium food and drink packages.
The President’s Room and Club 525 are also offered as premier viewing spaces. On match days, SAP Center provides a regular choice of bars and restaurants, plus shopping for essential Sharks merchandise.
Scotiabank Saddledome: Calgary Flames
Canadian teams have strong records in the NHL, and they also have a reputation for offering incredible premium packages. The Saddledome is the home of the Calgary Flames and it’s a striking building, topped off by the iconic saddle-shape roof, which provides its name.
The capacity on match days is a fraction under 20,000, and regular spectators can enjoy top class bars and restaurants on site. For something a little more special, there are premier options for those memorable occasions.
The goal judge experience takes fans behind the goalie to a spot where a referee would traditionally sit. At the higher end of the packages, the Flames also offer the Top Shelf experience with exceptionally fine wining and dining.
Amalie Arena: Tampa Bay Lightning
The Amalie Arena, home to Tampa Bay, will often appear towards the top of many lists. For a great atmosphere at a hockey game, fans of home and away sides will find it tough to beat. The Arena has hosted the Lightning since 1996, and it has a capacity of just over 19,000.
There are several premium packages available, but the Jai Life experience is one to aim for. Fans can enjoy private dining in the Taproom before watching the Bolts from the best seats in the house.
United Center: Chicago Blackhawks
Hockey fans have their own bucket lists, but many will want to visit the homes of all six original NHL teams. The Blackhawks are among that number, and the United Center in the windy city is a must see.
The experience here has added benefits, and, unlike many rival teams, the Blackhawks will allow premium paying fans the chance to tour the locker room. Just be sure to vacate in plenty of time to take your seats. The United Center offers a wide selection of rental suites and premium seating packages so you can take in a Blackhawks game in style.
All National Hockey League stadiums provide some form of hospitality package. You can find premium suites to watch the game, while enjoying the type of food and drink that isn’t always available at the regular outlets.
It may also be possible to meet the players and the best way to do this is to stand in the designated area. After the game, there is a chance of claiming an autograph or two.
All details can usually be found via the franchises and their official channels, and there’s always an enhanced experience to be had. Among the many packages that are out there, these are highly rated around the NHL circuits.
